Preschool Camp Counselor; Hays

Overview

Preschool Camp Counselors at YMCA center-based camps serve as caring, positive role models for young children, guiding them through fun, age-appropriate activities that support learning and development. Counselors create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where preschoolers can build confidence, practice social skills, and explore creativity through play, stories, music, and hands-on activities. This role is a rewarding opportunity to support early childhood growth while helping campers feel secure, supported, and excited to learn each day.

• Lead age-appropriate, play-based activities that support preschool learning and development, including art, music, stories, sensory play, and imaginative activities.
• Ensure the safety, supervision, and well-being of preschool campers at all times, including during activities, meals, rest time, and transitions.
• Serve as a positive role model by demonstrating patience, kindness, and enthusiasm while upholding YMCA values in all interactions.
• Create a nurturing, inclusive environment where preschoolers feel safe, supported, and encouraged to explore, learn, and build social skills.
• Maintain open and respectful communication with campers, parents, and fellow staff members, sharing updates and addressing questions or concerns as needed.
• Support preschoolers through conflicts or behavioral challenges using calm, developmentally appropriate, and constructive guidance strategies.
• Incorporate outdoor play and nature-based exploration to encourage curiosity, movement, and appreciation for the environment in a safe and supervised setting.
• Participate in all aspects of staff development, including team meetings, pre-service training, and required ongoing training throughout the year.
• Accurately document daily attendance and complete required records in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
• Make the safety, care, and emotional well-being of children the top priority in all activities and decisions.
• Demonstrate the YMCA’s mission and values in every interaction, fostering a positive camp culture and serving as an ambassador of the YMCA within the community.
• Assist with additional tasks as needed to support the overall success of the preschool camp program.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• High school diploma or GED equivalent
• At least one year of experience in childcare, preschool age preferred.
• First Aid/CPR certifications (must be obtained within 60 days of employment).
• Growth Mindset:
  Learn and improve to better serve members and the mission.
• Team Player:
  Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.
• Communicates Effectively:
  Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.
• Customer Focused:
  Anticipates needs and ensures quality, member-centered service.
• Fosters Belonging:
  Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, stand, walk, hike outdoors in hot temperatures, bend, talk, and occasionally lift and/or move items, including equipment, furniture, and/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions